Written and directed by Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer is an IMAX®-shot epic thriller that thrusts audiences into the pulse-pounding paradox of the enigmatic man who must risk destroying the world in order to save it.
The film stars Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer and Emily Blunt as his wife, biologist and botanist Katherine “Kitty” Oppenheimer. Oscar® winner Matt Damon portrays General Leslie Groves Jr., director of the Manhattan Project, and Robert Downey, Jr. plays Lewis Strauss, a founding commissioner of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission.
What We Thought:
As of right now Oppenheimer is my Best Picture of the year. You can also pencil in Cillian Murphy as the Best Actor Winner. The film will receive double digit Oscar nominations for sure even opening many months ahead of awards season. Christopher Nolan once again gives the world “cinema”.
The story is told in three parts over three hours. There are times it jumps around in the timeline, but ultimately the first hour is the introduction of J. Robert Oppenheimer, his background, his relationships and friendships. The second hour is the Manhattan Project and the building of the bombs that would end World War II. And the third hour is about his post-war government life. I found it all interesting and yes the third act is a bit slow and full of exposition, but the man was fascinating and if you don’t know the outcome it’s even educational.
Cillian Murphy gives a career defining performance as Oppenheimer. They might as well just hand him the Oscar now because I can’t think of anyone who’s beating him. As Oppenheimer he is brilliant and chaotic and pushed people to the edge. He’s stoic and narcissistic, a womanizer, a proud American and someone who greatly feared what he built. The levels of depth Murphy brings to the character is amazing. You root for this flawed man even knowing what happens. He’s razor sharp, but at times not a good person. Ultimately he is human.
Robert Downey Jr. will also get Best Supporting Actor buzz. He’s vile and encapsulates everything wrong with politicians. Emily Blunt was the biggest surprise though. She’s fantastic and I expect award talk to come her way as Oppenheimer’s wife. The top-notch ensemble cast also includes Matt Damon, Florence Pugh, Josh Hartnett, Casey Affleck, Rami Malek, Kenneth Branagh and more.
Then there’s what Christopher Nolan brings to the table. The direction and cinematography are gorgeous and expect nominations for both. The score is monumental and flows flawlessly through three hours. If you thought the ticking of Dunkirk was something, wait until you hear this. The score might be even more impressive than the visuals. All aspects of filmmaking shine in the film.
I could go on and on about Oppenheimer, but let’s be honest, you probably know whether or not you’re seeing it. Barbie will win the weekend at the box office, but come see me during awards season when Oppenheimer rings up nomination after nomination. It’s a breathtaking film if you enjoy what cinema should be. The acting is award worthy. The direction and photography are breathtaking. The score is heart pounding. As a history nerd I loved the story. Not only does the story show us what human beings are capable of, but the film and those involved do the same thing. Nothing else to say besides…
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
The Nerds Templar 